Bishop Frederick Makka, the General Overseer of the Elim Pentecostal Evangelistic Fellowship of Uganda (PEFA-U), has issued a powerful Christmas and New Year message, urging Ugandans to prioritize peace, unity, and love as the country heads to the general elections on January 15, 2026.
In his message, Bishop Makka emphasized that Christmas is more than a celebration – it’s a reminder that God came to dwell among us, bringing love, mercy, and hope.
“…As we celebrate this joyous season, may the Prince of Peace reign in our hearts and lives—manifested through forgiveness, kindness, and selfless love toward one another…,” Bishop Makka said, quoting Isaiah 9:6, “For to us a child is born… and He will be called the Prince of Peace”
The bishop also emphasized the importance of hard work, citing biblical teachings that work is ordained by God. He warned against individuals who encourage followers to sit and relax, waiting for miracles, saying they have departed from the true word of God.
As Ugandans prepare to elect new leaders, Bishop Makka joined other religious leaders in calling for peaceful electoral processes.
“…Let this season inspire us to shine His light, even amidst differing opinions, political campaigns, and election tensions…,” he said. “May we choose unity over division, understanding over conflict and peace over strife”.
The call for peace and unity is echoed by other Christian leaders in Uganda, including the Catholic Bishops, who have urged the Electoral Commission to take firm control of the electoral process and security forces to refrain from violence ³.
Archbishop Raphael Wokorach P’Mony, Archbishop of Gulu Archdiocese, also emphasized the importance of peace and love during the Christmas season and election period, saying, “We do not want violence to escalate again during this Christmas and election period”
Bishop Jacinto Kibuuka of the Antiochian Orthodox Catholic Church (AOCC) similarly called for peace, saying, “Above all elections, there is God who sent us the Prince of Peace, Jesus Christ. As we celebrate His birth today, peace should be our priority, especially in this tough election period”.
The emphasis on peace and unity has been a dominant theme in Christmas and New year messages from various Christian denominations and leaders in Uganda.
Bishop Dr Daniel Muwanga the Overseer of Kimaka Faith Fellowship Ministries International earlier also released a powerful festive season message titled ‘Peace in The Midst of Turmoil’ in which he implored Ugandans including politicians to tread carefully and avoid setting the country ablaze.
“…let us not be swayed by fear or hatred but instead let us choose love, peace and unity…”, Bishop Muwanga urged while quoting Apostle Paul who said, “if it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone…”) Romans 12:18).
Many messages highlight the importance of following the teachings of Jesus and examples especially during trying times and challenges like election periods.
As Ugandans continue to celebrate the festive season and prepare for the elections, Bishop Makka’s message serves as a reminder of the importance of faith, peace, and unity in the face of challenges.
